Best Bakersfield to Tucson Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Bakersfield to Tucson and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 598 mile move from California to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Bakersfield to Tucson moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Moving Buddies Tucson AZ), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Bakersfield compared to Tucson. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Bakersfield to Tucson Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Moving Buddies Tucson AZ9.069.23Authorized For HHG
2Get Your Move On, LLC9.048.37Authorized For HHG
3Excel Relocation Systems8.198.5Authorized For HHG
4Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.8.128.45Authorized For Property, HHG
5Meathead Movers7.225.82Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Bakersfield to Tucson?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 598 miles from Bakersfield, CA to Tucson, AZ will cost on average $2,290 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Bakersfield to Tucson move is roughly $5,487. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,542300 ft³$5.14
1 Bedroom$2,290450 ft³$5.09
2 Bedrooms$3,779750 ft³$5.04
3 Bedrooms$5,4871100 ft³$4.99
4 Bedrooms$7,9011600 ft³$4.94
5+ Bedrooms$8,7991800 ft³$4.89
*Please note: These California to Arizona moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Arizona. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to AZ mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tucson to Bakersfield guide.

Compare the 5 Best Bakersfield to Tucson Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Moving Buddies Tucson AZ Logo

Moving Buddies Tucson AZ

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 1,589+ data points

5502 E 25th St

Tucson, AZ, 85711

About Moving Buddies Tucson AZ

Since 2011, this family-owned moving company has been building a reputation in Tucson, AZ, for excellence, professionalism, and integrity. Moving Buddies...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3531262 / 1542042

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Get Your Move On, LLC Logo

Get Your Move On, LLC

Exceptional9.04/10
based on 1,422+ data points

1430 E Hadley St # 110

Phoenix, AZ, 85034

About Get Your Move On, LLC

This family-owned and operated moving company has been helping Phoenix, AZ residents move since 2005. Get Your Move On was founded...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1885055 / 990813

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers19
Total Annual Miles Moved350,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Excel Relocation Systems Logo

Excel Relocation Systems

Very Good8.19/10
based on 584+ data points

3101 Gilmore Ave

Bakersfield, CA, 93308

About Excel Relocation Systems

Excel Relocation Systems is a Bakersfield commercial moving company that partners with Smooth Move USA. Excel Relocation Systems specializes in business...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance
  • Commercial Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2911596 / 981013

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Broker

Registered Trucks/Vans22
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved262,226 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc. Logo

Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.

Very Good8.12/10
based on 1,185+ data points

3501 N Sillect Ave A

Bakersfield, CA, 93308

About Hansen's Moving & Storage, Inc.

Hansen's Moving & Storage is one of the largest moving and storage companies in Kern County and has been serving the...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2728836 / 88698

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved12,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Meathead Movers Logo

Meathead Movers

7.22/10
based on 641+ data points

2905 Unicorn Rd suite a

Bakersfield, CA, 93308

About Meathead Movers

Meathead Movers was founded by two high school brothers in 1997, and now handles 18,000 moves per year! From Eureka down...

Services

  • Full Service Local Moving
  • On-Site Labor Moves Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/2/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

921143 / 398077

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans53
Registered Drivers87
Total Annual Miles Moved1,188,444 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Bakersfield vs. Tucson Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating, it's natural to seek the familiar comforts of home in a new city. This comparison between Bakersfield, CA & Tucson, AZ local neighborhoods aims to smooth your transition by matching Bakersfield's top neighborhoods with their Tucson counterparts, focusing on vibe, community amenities, and lifestyle.

BakersfieldTucsonHow They're Similar
Seven OaksCatalina FoothillsUpscale, scenic views
Olive Drive AreaSam HughesVintage charm, vibrant community
Tevis RanchRita RanchFamily-friendly, newer developments
RosedaleSabino CanyonSuburban feel, outdoor activities
Stockdale EstatesOro ValleyAffluent, golf courses
Southern OaksDove MountainLuxurious, secluded
LaurelglenStarr PassPicturesque, resort-like
The OaksBarrio ViejoHistoric, cultural richness
WestchesterEl PresidioHistoric homes, walkable areas
Haggin OaksSkyline Country ClubPrestigious, great amenities

In Bakersfield, neighborhoods like Seven Oaks and Haggin Oaks offer upscale living with a variety of amenities that cater to a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle. Comparable areas in Tucson include Catalina Foothills and Skyline Country Club, both known for their scenic views and exclusive atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Olive Drive Area of Bakersfield shares its vintage charm and vibrant community feel with Tucson's Sam Hughes neighborhood, where you'll find historic homes mixed with modern conveniences. For those attracted to the outdoor activities and suburban feel of Rosedale, Sabino Canyon in Tucson will not disappoint, featuring ample hiking trails and a strong sense of community. And if the golf courses and affluent lifestyle of Stockdale Estates are what you're leaving behind in Bakersfield, you'll find Oro Valley in Tucson a splendid alternative, boasting luxurious homes alongside top-tier golfing experiences.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Bakersfield to Tucson

Moving from one city to another involves considering a multitude of factors, from climate to community. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes when relocating from Bakersfield, CA to Tucson, AZ, helping you make an informed decision about your next big move.

CONs
PROs
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Air quality concerns
  • Higher crime rates
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Hotter summers
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Clearer skies
  • Lower crime rates
  • More cultural diversity
  • Milder summers
Tucson, AZ iconTucson, AZ
  • Higher cost of living
  • Further from major cities
  • Less industrial jobs
  • Less agricultural jobs
Bakersfield, CA iconBakersfield, CA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Proximity to LA
  • Robust oil industry
  • Strong agricultural sector

Tucson offers substantial improvements in air quality and crime rates compared to Bakersfield. The clearer skies in Tucson enhance outdoor activities, leading to a vibrant community engaging in hiking and biking around places like Sabino Canyon and Saguaro National Park. While Bakersfield boasts a lower cost of living and is just a couple hours away from LA, Tucson counters with its rich cultural diversity, reflected in its restaurants, music, and art scene. You'll find an array of dining options that highlight this diversity, from the authentic Mexican cuisine at El Tucsonense to the innovative dishes at The Hub Restaurant and Ice Creamery downtown. Despite Tucson having a higher cost of living, the quality of life in terms of safety, air quality, and cultural richness might offset these financial concerns for many.

Bakersfield vs. Tucson Food Guide

Food is an essential aspect of local culture and offers a taste of what it's like to live in an area. With that in mind, we're going to look at a comparison of the local cuisine between Bakersfield & Tucson, so you can be better informed about the culinary scene in your new city.

Bakersfield
Tucson
Most iconic local food item
Basque cuisine
Sonoran hot dog
Most popular meat dish
Tri-tip
Carne asada
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Street tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegetable stir-fry
Vegan burrito
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Wool Growers
  • Luigi's Italian Restaurant
  • 24th Street Cafe
  • El Guero Canelo
  • Cafe Poca Cosa
  • Hub Restaurant & Ice Creamery
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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Upon moving to Tucson, you'll find a vibrant food scene that embraces both traditional and innovative culinary experiences. The city is famous for its Sonoran hot dog, a unique twist on the American classic found primarily in food trucks and street corners throughout the city, especially in neighborhoods like Downtown and South Tucson. Carne asada is another staple, serving as a testament to the city's rich Mexican influences. For those seeking plant-based options, Tucson is notably vegan-friendly, with a variety of restaurants offering creative vegan dishes, including the popular vegan burrito. Establishments like El Guero Canelo and Cafe Poca Cosa reflect the city's dedication to authentic and diverse flavors, making Tucson an exciting destination for food enthusiasts.

Bakersfield vs. Tucson Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering its culinary treasures. For Bakersfield residents moving to Tucson, this comparison of favorite eating spots is designed to bridge the gap between Bakersfield's culinary scene and Tucson's eateries, making the transition feel like home . Whether you crave high-end dining experiences or cozy, casual spots, this guide has got you covered.

BakersfieldTucsonWhat You'll Love
Wool GrowersCafe Poca CosaSimilar Basque-inspired dishes, fresh ingredients.
Luigi'sCaruso'sTraditional Italian, family-owned vibe matches.
24th Street CafeBaja CafeBoth offer hearty, inventive breakfasts and brunches.
Pyrenees CafeLa CocinaHomely setting, offering a mix of local and organic.
Dewar's Candy ShopThe ScreameryFor handcrafted sweets, ice cream, and nostalgic atmosphere.
Hodel's Country DiningPrep & PastryModern diner with a twist, comfort food with craft.
Lengthwise Brewing CompanyBorderlands Brewing Co.Craft beer scene with local flavors.
Kern River Brewing CompanyTap & BottleFor a wide selection of local and regional beers.
Smith's BakeriesNadine's BakeryCapturing that homemade, fresh-out-of-the-oven essence.
Belvedere RestaurantThe CoronetElegant, European flare with a modern touch.

Embarking on a culinary journey from Bakersfield to Tucson is like trading the well-loved pages of a family recipe book for a new chapter filled with diverse flavors and experiences. While you might miss Wool Growers' hearty Basque dishes, Cafe Poca Cosa in Tucson awaits to impress with its fresh, innovative take on traditional dishes. If Luigi's homestyle Italian had been your go-to, Caruso's warm, family-owned atmosphere will surely fill that gap. And for those sweet tooth moments, swapping Dewar's Candy Shop for The Screamery means you'll continue enjoying handcrafted delights that echo your fondest memories of home. This transition is not about leaving behind what you know; it's about adding new favorites to your culinary repertoire, ensuring Tucson starts to feel a bit more like home with every bite.

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Bakersfield vs. Tucson Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial factor when planning to move. Understanding how housing in Bakersfield compares with Tucson informs decisions and sets expectations. This comparison dives into costs, architectural styles, and the overall living experience in both cities.

Bakersfield
Tucson
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Ranch
Spanish Mission and Ranch
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, family-oriented
Outdoor entertaining, proximity to nature

When you compare Bakersfield and Tucson, cost stands out immediately with Tucson offering a more affordable entrée into the housing market. Beyond the numbers, the lifestyle in each city reflects in the architecture; Bakersfield's modern and ranch-style homes cater to families seeking space, whereas Tucson's Spanish Mission influences embrace the desert landscape, enhancing outdoor living. Walkability and bikeability scores indicate Tucson's urban areas are slightly more accessible, aligning with its higher urban lifestyle score. This can be appealing if you favor a city vibe with easy access to nature and outdoor entertainment, a common theme in Tucson's real estate listings.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tucson, AZ

1. Sam Hughes : You'll find plenty of parks and walking paths for you and your furry friends, along with a strong sense of community that loves its pets.

2. Oro Valley : This area offers spacious yards, numerous trails, and pet-friendly amenities that ensure your pet feels right at home.

3. Catalina Foothills : With its beautiful scenery and abundance of outdoor activities, your pets will enjoy the hiking trails and pet-friendly parks.

Bakersfield vs. Tucson Weather Considerations

When relocating from Bakersfield, CA to Tucson, AZ, understanding the variations in weather you will encounter is crucial. This comparison will provide you with vital insights on how to adjust to your new environment and what changes in climate to expect.

Bakersfield
Tucson
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Fires
Monsoons, Fires
Air Quality
Variable/Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

98°F / 66°F
100°F / 74°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

58°F / 39°F
65°F / 40°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

6.47
11.3
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0
0.3


Moving from Bakersfield to Tucson, you'll find Tucson's summers slightly hotter with higher lows at night, meaning you'll likely rely more on your air conditioning during the summer months. However, Tucson enjoys more days of sunshine and lower humidity, making the overall climate feel more comfortable year-round. It's also worth noting Tucson's higher UV index, so adequate sun protection will be more important in your daily life. Despite Tucson's reputation for being dry, it receives more annual rainfall than Bakersfield, which contributes to its slightly different ecosystem that may influence seasonal allergies differently. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your new environment.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Bakersfield to Tucson

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will illuminate the differences in cost of living, taxes, and overall economic environment between Bakersfield and Tucson, ensuring you're fully prepared for your new life.

Bakersfield
Tucson
Avg. Household Income
$66,666
$50,306
Cost of Living Index
103.4
96.5
State Income Tax
9.3
4.5
Avg. Property Tax
0.81
0.72
Avg. Sales Tax
8.25
8.6
Top 3 Industries
Oil & Gas, Agriculture, Manufacturing
Education, Aerospace, Tourism
Affluence
Moderate
Moderate
Poverty
High
Higher
Homelessness
Notable
Elevated

While Bakersfield households tend to have a higher average income than those in Tucson, the overall cost of living in Tucson is slightly lower. This discrepancy is largely reflective of the differences in state income tax, with Arizona offering a more lenient rate than California. However, despite Tucson’s lower cost of living index, it is important to consider the higher poverty and homelessness rates which may indicate broader socio-economic challenges. Factors such as the dominant industries also play a crucial role; Bakersfield’s oil and gas contrast with Tucson’s education and aerospace sectors, highlighting the divergent economic landscapes of the two cities.

Bakersfield vs. Tucson Political & Religious Comparison

In this guide, we provide a quick glance at the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Bakersfield & Tucson to better understand the social and cultural climate you're moving into. This comparison gives insight into the city you're leaving and the new city you'll call home.

Bakersfield
Tucson
Political Make-up
Conservative leaning
Liberal leaning
Local Politics
Republican influence
Democratic influence
Religion
Higher Protestant and Catholic presence
Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence

When it comes to the political landscape, you'll find Bakersfield tends to lean more conservatively, with a notable Republican influence in local politics. This contrasts with Tucson, where the community leans more liberal and Democratic influence is strong. Religion plays an essential role in both cities; however, Bakersfield boasts a higher concentration of Protestant and Catholic communities. In contrast, Tucson is known for its religious diversity while still maintaining a significant Catholic presence. These elements together paint a picture of the societal fabric you can expect to become part of as you make your move.

Bakersfield vs. Tucson Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This guide compares the traffic and transportation options between Bakersfield & Tucson, aiming to equip you with all you need to understand about the daily commute and traffic patterns, ensuring a smoother transition as you plan your move.

Bakersfield
Tucson
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
25
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
3 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Feasible

Both Bakersfield and Tucson boast average commute times of around 25 minutes, but there are noteworthy differences when it comes to navigating these cities. Tucson slightly edges out in terms of traffic congestion, making for a somewhat smoother commute. Public transportation options are more robust in Tucson, reflecting a rating of 6 out of 10, as opposed to Bakersfield's 5. The slightly higher availability of buses and potentially streetcars in Tucson provides more flexibility for those who prefer or depend on public transport. While it might be challenging to rely entirely on public transit in Bakersfield, Tucson offers a bit more leniency for those looking to minimize their use of a personal vehicle, thanks to its compact nature and investment in public transportation infrastructure.

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